Are you looking to escape the cold like a snowbird and have some fun in the sun? Try these amazing spots for an RV winter vacation. East coast, west coast, and in between—we’ve got you covered with the best winter travel suggestions in the country.
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Tampa, Florida
We’ve enjoyed two fabulous winters in the Tampa Bay area and can’t wait to go back. From the amazing weather to the wide range of activities and a prime location for day trips, Tampa is at the top of our list of winter destinations.
Beaches are obviously a big draw for Florida visitors. Enjoy some of the sandy shores of Tampa Bay or cross the bridge to enjoy the Gulf Coast.
If the beach is not your scene, there are many quiet county parks and waterways for kayaking. Tampa is also home to a terrific zoo, aquarium, and several museums. You can find Camping World at the Florida RV Supershow in Tampa in early 2023. Be sure to stay through the winter to enjoy the annual Gasparilla pirate invasion in January, complete with a parade and flotilla of boats.
Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby:
- Located in Northwest Tampa, Bay Bayou RV Resort is especially popular with the social snowbird crowd and has many activities during the winter months. Set amidst natural surroundings on Double Branch Creek, it doesn’t even seem like you’re in the midst of a city.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Alabama may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering winter destinations, but that is exactly why it is such a great choice.
Not everyone has discovered the peace and tranquility that a winter vacation on Alabama’s beaches can offer. Mild weather (highs in the 50s in January) and clear skies make walks on the beach a perfect way to enjoy your winter days.
Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby:
- Alabama Coast Campground is your gateway to the Gulf. Camp beneath beautiful live oaks, and enjoy nearby shopping and amusement parks.
- Sugar Sands RV Resort offers concrete pads, professional landscaping, and full hook-ups for even the largest RVs. A hot tub, playground, and swimming pool keep guests entertained.
Galveston, Texas
You don’t have to go to the Caribbean to experience island life. Consider becoming a winter Texan instead. Galveston Island’s tropical climate and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico may provide the relaxing escape you’ve been hoping for.
With a small-town culture and southern hospitality, you’ll feel right at home. There’s plenty to explore on this island with 32 miles of beaches, one of the largest collections of Victorian architecture in the country, a charming historic downtown, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Stick around through February to enjoy the third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States.
Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby:
- Walking distance from Galveston’s “Historic Pleasure Pier,” the Sandpiper RV Resort is a vacation destination with a front row to the stunning ocean horizon. Slip into the swimming pool while you enjoy a beachfront view.
- If you’re looking for a campground with a lazy river, Jamaica Beach RV Park has got you covered. Think multiple swimming pools, one with a swim-up bar, mini golf, and public beach access just across the street.
This RV park is approximately 12 miles outside of the town of Galveston.
Tucson, Arizona
With daytime temperatures rarely dipping below 60 and hardly any sign of rain, Tucson is a top choice for snowbirds looking to soak up some winter sun.
It is the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike. For a closer look at the Arizona desert, spend some time hiking the trails of Sabino Canyon or exploring nearby Saguaro National Park.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum also provides an interesting look at Tucson’s flora and fauna. For a taste of contemporary Tucson, spend some time perusing the galleries in the Catalina Foothills district or Mission San Xavier del Bac (known as the White Dove of the Desert), a stunning example of 18th-century architecture.
Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby:
- Rincon Country West RV Resort has just about any activity you can think of – card games, shuffleboard, wood crafting, quilting, knitting, crocheting, hiking, Bible study, pickleball, tennis, and more. In keeping with the amazing Tucson food scene, they also have food vendors and a weekly farmer’s market.
- Far Horizons RV Resort is set against the stunning backdrop of mountains. Sites are paved and accommodate rigs up to forty-seven feet in length. Pickleball enthusiasts will be glad to hear there is a court at the campground.
San Diego, California
Warm winters and a world-famous zoo—what more could you ask for? San Diego offers temperate weather perfect for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions including its notable food districts, parks, natural reserves, and beaches.
If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, Balboa Park is home to over fifteen museums, and its striking old-world Spanish architecture is the perfect place to enjoy open-air concerts.
Good Sam Campgrounds Nearby:
- Mission Bay RV Resort, true to its name, boasts bay views right from the campsites. Sink into the newly opened pool and spa, or have some fun nearby at the golf courses and scenic trails.
- Referred to as San Diego’s “legendary campground,” Campland on the Bay is on the shores of Mission Bay. Push off on your paddleboard right from the campground.
We’d love to hear from you! What is your favorite destination for an RV winter vacation? Leave a comment below.
Bruce – What you say is true – unless you have a time machine. I was born and raised in Los Angeles – at that time San Francisco was the most populous city in California. It was great. In December I could go swimming in salt water in the morning at Monica and in the afternoon go play in the snow on top of Mt. Wilson. Camping in Yosemite Valley was limited to 30 days – you read that correctly – and the family camped right on the banks of the Merced River (Camp 12) each summer for the full 30 days. It was great then. Even the politics in California was pretty good then. Both my wife and I are native Californians that are now legally citizens of Polk County Texas, but full time RVers that seldom stay anywhere for much longer than a week (except in winter we hibernate in Mesa AZ ). I have bad memories of California in the recent past few decades, but VERY fond memories of the California more than a few decades ago. But one of the advantages of my age is that I purposely remember the good and try to overlook the bad.
I just can’t bring myself to do any thing in California
We are enjoying Casa Grande RV Park. It is in Casa Grande Arizona. Very nice people and park. Close to Phoenix
Port Aransas, Texas. Surviving Harvey meant RV park rebuilding along the island. Lafitte’s Hideaway is a nice little gem.
Rocky Pt Mexico Puerto Prnasco The Reef ocean front RV amazing 3- hours south of Phoenix
We love San Diego! Our favorite RV Park is Campland By The Bay! Not very fancy but soooo much fun. Right on the beach! Cantina is great!
I’m right there with you.
Sounds like an awesome spot, Bob!